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Bathroom Basics

The Thai Bathroom, Basics

Not all of Thailand has adventures that are fun. A particular adventure that most westerners do not like to . . . ummm . . . venture is the Thai bathroom. Believe it or not, using the loo is not a universal skill. Don't just walk in assuming you know how to turn on the hot water or flush a toilet.

The Thai ToiletAlso known as the squatter, this hole in the ground can be quite confusing for a westerner. All of us has been taught to always sit on the toilet seat. But in this case, you squat. This basically involves you standing on each end of the hole, and bending down. Use your imagination .

The BucketNow the next question is, where is the toilet paper? That's right, that convenience that any 'normal' person couldn't do without. No good 'ol tp . . . Looking around you will notice a bucket of water. No tp, and a bucket of water. Figured it out yet? Well, what would you do if all you had to wipe yourself was water and your left hand? Use your imagination . . .

Personally, I am smart (at least prefer to keep my hands clean) and not only carry a roll of toilet paper wherever I go, but backups in all my luggage. However a caution I must point out, flushing isn't like a western toilet either, so you cant just throw your toilet paper in the hole or you will risk clogging.

Toilet FlushingAgain, a hole in the ground, a bucket of water, and no flush valve thing . . . . Actually it is simple. Just fill the bucket of water to the top, and then pour the water into the hole all at once. Repeat till the hole is empty. Fairly simple, but again, also very alien to those who are only familiar to the western toilet.

Thai ShowersYou probably know by now that the average Thai person takes three showers a day. The reason to shower so often is because its always so hot and humid over there. If you don't shower 3 times a day they will think you are dirty. When I say Thai person, I mean a Thai person in Thailand. Unfortunately what you may not like about Thai showers is that they are always quite (very) cold (even though its hot+ outside). Not everyone likes cold showers . . . But you are in luck. Some wealthier Thais have these water heater things in the bathrooms that heat the water straight. Just turn them on, adjust the temperature dial, and you are set to go.

Public Thai ToiletsAlways carry a few baht around when traveling, as using a public bathroom isn't free . . . This sign says there is a bathroom behind the store for 3 baht. Memorizing the top row could come in handy when looking for a toilet . . .